While the new Galaxy Tab 4 7.0 with 8 GB of storage sells for the same price as the Tab 3 7.0, which went on sale last July, the newer version has a better screen resolution at 1280 x 800 pixels (up from 1024 x 600 pixels) and runs Android 4.4 (KitKat). The older model ran Android 4.1. (Jelly Bean). Last year's version had a dual-core 1.2GHz processor; this year's model uses a quad-core 1.2GHz chip.

However, the Galaxy Tab 4 7.0 has the same size non-removable battery as the previous generation -- rated at 4,000 mAh -- which some reviewers said failed to offer more than four to six hours of life for active video viewing and game playing. Samsung didn't rate the duration of the newer version, but put the older one at 8 hours of multimedia use. Both versions have the same 3-megapixel rear camera.

The Tab 4 line also includes the 8.0 with an 8-in. display for $269.99 and the 10.1 with a 10.1-in. display for $349.99.

All three of the Tab 4 models have Netflix and WatchOne preloaded. All the models come in either black or white and are Wi-Fi only. Starting this summer, major U.S. carriers will offer 4G LTE versions of the Tab 4, but not all three sizes will be available at each carrier. Pricing and exact dates have not been announced.